Skirting boards are the unsung heroes of interior design. They do more than just cover the joint between the wall and the floor. Skirting boards have the power to elevate the style and add character to any room. One of the most popular skirting board designs is the Ogee profile, admired for its elegant, classical shape. If you’re a DIY enthusiast looking to upgrade your home with ogee mdf skirting board, this guide is for you.
Understanding Ogee MDF Skirting Boards
Before getting into the nitty-gritty of installation, it’s important to understand what an Ogee MDF skirting board is. Ogee is a term that refers to a profile with a double curve, typically one convex shape flaring outwards and one concave, forming an ‘S’ shape. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is a type of engineered wood known for its durability and smooth finish, perfect for skirting boards. Ogee MDF skirting boards combine the classic ogee profile with the robustness of MDF, creating a skirting board option that is both stylish and practical.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
To start your project, you will need the following tools and materials:
- Ogee MDF skirting boards: Measure your walls to determine how much skirting to buy, then add 10% to your order to allow for wastage and offcuts.
- Tape measure: Essential for accurate measurements.
- Pencil: To mark your measurements and cutting lines.
- Mitre saw: For cutting internal and external corners.
- Adhesive: To affix the skirting boards to the wall.
- Filling compound AND Caulking Gun: For a professional finish, you’ll need to fill the gaps and conceal the nail holes with a fine caulk.
- A fine-toothed saw/Stanley knife: To cut skirting boards to length when needed.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Plan Your Corners
The first step is to prepare for your internal and external corners. Use your mitre saw to cut the skirting board at a 45-degree angle for internal corners. For external corners, you will also cut the skirting board at a 45-degree angle, but remember to cut the mirror image of your internal cut so that the pieces fit together correctly.
Measure and Cut Your Skirting Boards
With your dimensions in hand, start measuring and cutting your skirting boards accordingly. Remember the old carpenter’s axiom, measure twice, cut once. Always check your measurements before making any cuts to avoid unnecessary waste.
Adhering to the Wall
Using your adhesive, apply a bead to the back of the skirting board. For a strong bond, the adhesive should be a high grab variety. Press the skirting board against the wall and hold for a few seconds. Work your way around the room, securing the skirting boards in place.
Dealing with Uneven Walls
If your walls are not perfectly straight, you may need to scribe some sections of the skirting board using a scribe tool. This will help you create a more professional and seamless look.
Filling and Finishing
Once all skirting boards are in place, fill any gaps with your choice of filling compound. Use a caulk for a professional finish that hides the fixing nails and any other imperfections.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to installing Ogee MDF skirting boards that enhance the aesthetics and value of your home.
Safety Considerations
Safety should always be your top priority. When working with power tools, wear appropriate safety gear, such as goggles and gloves. Always ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area, especially when using adhesives and filling compounds.
Conclusion
Installing Ogee MDF skirting boards can be a rewarding DIY project that adds a touch of class to your home. With the right preparation, tools, and materials, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that complements your interior decor. If you’re patient, meticulous, and take pride in your work, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t consider installing your own skirting boards. Happy DIY-ing!
